ADVENTURE IN CHOQUEQUIRAO: DISCOVER THE LOST INCAN CITY IN 4 DAYS
4D/3N
Discover the magic in 4 unforgettable days.
Embark on a journey to Choquequirao, the «sacred sister» of Machu Picchu, discovering an Inca city hidden among the majestic Salkantay mountains. Along the 64 kilometers of winding trails and canyons of the Apurímac River, you will enjoy stunning landscapes and lush vegetation. Guided by experts, each step will bring you closer to the history and mystery of this hidden treasure.
ITINERARIO
DAY 1: CUSCO - CAPULIYOC - CHIQUISCA
We leave Cusco early in the morning, at 6:00 am, and drive through the spectacular Anta plateau, surrounded by the towering snow-capped peaks of the Andes. The road descends more than 1820 meters to a bridge over the Apurímac River gorge and then ascends again through fields and orchards before reaching the Cachora district, at an altitude of 3400 meters (approximately 5 hours of travel). From here, we enjoy stunning views of the Vilcabamba mountain range.
We follow a gentle trail that offers the first glimpses of the distant Choquequirao from the Capuliyoc viewpoint, situated in front of the majestic Pedrayoj (5482 meters above sea level). We begin a steep descent through an area of dry cactus, ichu (Stipa ichu), bromeliads (achupallas), and orchids in the Apurímac River canyon. Finally, we arrive at our campsite in Chiquisca (1900 meters above sea level), located next to the Apurímac River (known as the Great Talking Spirit by the Incas), where our cabins will be ready to welcome us.
We end the day with a delicious dinner and breafing about the next day’s itinerary.
Meals: Lunch and dinner.
Overnight: Chiquisca, in established cabins.
Maximum altitude: 3200 meters above sea level
Minimum altitude: 1900 meters above sea level
Hiking distance: Approximately 19 km.
DAY 2: CHIQUISCA - MARAMPATA
After a hearty breakfast, we leave our camp in Chiquisca early to take advantage of the cool weather during the ascent. We descend briefly before crossing the rushing Apurímac River through a newly constructed iron bridge. Then, a wide and winding path takes us through the dry canyon, passing small sugar cane plantations and ascending to the highland meadows.
After two hours of hiking, we take a brief stop at Santa Rosa, where we can buy mineral water, soft drinks, and enjoy a delicious sugar cane chicha. After a short rest, we continue the ascent until we reach Marampata, where we will have lunch. Here ends our steep hike.
From Marampata, we have our first panoramic view of the buildings and terraces of Choquequirao through a deep valley. The final stretch of today’s hike passes through the cool shadows of a native cloud forest as we approach the wooded ridge (3000 m) where the Incas built their ceremonial center.
We camp near the archaeological park of Choquequirao, at a campsite that has sanitary facilities and cold showers, and for greater comfort, also hot showers. We will have the afternoon free to recover energy and prepare for our visit to the city of Choquequirao.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Overnight: Marampata, in our cabins.
Maximum altitude: 3200 meters above sea level
Minimum altitude: 1550 meters above sea level
Hiking distance: Approximately 13 km.
DAY 3: MARAMPATA - CHOQUEQUIRAO - CHIQUISCA
We start the day early with breakfast and head to Choquequirao for a one-hour guided tour and free time to explore. Choquequirao, meaning «Cradle of Gold,» offers stunning views of the Apurímac River 1450 meters below. The site features curved terraces, an artificial hill, a ceremonial platform, and numerous Inca structures, including temples, mausoleums, royal residences, ritual baths, and more. Andean condors often soar above the site in the afternoon.
After our visit, we return to Marampata for lunch and prepare for the return trip. We follow the same trail, enjoying diverse flora and fauna, and pass through Marampata, Santa Rosa, and Playa Rosalina. Finally, we reach Chiquisca, where we set up our last camp under the shade of fruit and avocado trees.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Overnight: Our cabins.
Maximum altitude: 3200 meters above sea level
Minimum altitude: 1900 meters above sea level
Hiking distance: Approximately 13 km.
DAY 4: CHIQUISCA - CAPULIYOC - CUSCO
We start our hike very early to avoid the intense heat of the canyon during the day and take advantage of the morning coolness. This effort will be rewarded with an incredible sunrise in the Apurímac canyon and a last view of the Choquequirao archaeological complex. We walk for three hours along winding trails, under the shade of lush trees with soft bark, surrounded by orchids and bromeliads, until we reach the mountain pastures that extend towards the Capuliyoc viewpoint.
After a brief rest, we enjoy our last farewell lunch before starting the journey back to the imperial city of Cusco.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Maximum altitude: 3200 meters above sea level
Minimum altitude: 1550 meters above sea level
Hiking distance: Approximately 19 km.
PRICE AND INCLUSIONS
Each trip is tailored to your specific needs and desires, so our prices vary depending on the number of people traveling, the desired level of accommodation, and the activities included, among other factors.
INCLUDE
- Private transport
- Entrance tickets to Choquequirao and other Inca sites.
- Professional guide.
- Comfortable cabins.
- Comfortable cabins.
- Food as indicated in the itinerary (vegetarian food option upon request).
- 1 emergency horse (with helmet) that you can ride if you feel exhausted or sick.
- First aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- Pack horses (for equipment and personal items), including riders.
- Camping pillows and foam mattresses for sleeping.
- Boiled water for drinking and washing.
NOT INCLUDED
- Sleeping bag suitable for -10°C temperature – $20
- Additional horses for extra personal luggage above the personal item allowance.
- Other services not mentioned.
ACCOMMODATIONS
We offer you an exclusive selection of our accommodations in Cusco, ensuring that you enjoy the utmost comfort and an unparalleled experience during your stay.
